Biometric fingerprint authentication stops working after a security command is issued

Posted by Heather Burkett on 10 October 2013 12:28 PM

The following issue has been observed on iPhone 5s devices using biometric fingerprint authentication in conjunction with a passcode. When a “Selective Wipe” command is issued to the device from NotifyMDM, the device will no longer be able to use the fingerprints stored on the phone.

The fingerprints are still stored on the iOS device, but the only method that will unlock the phone after the command is issued is to enter the backup passcode. This is currently default Apple functionality and expected behavior.

The fingerprint feature can be re-enabled by performing the following steps: Go into Settings > General > Passcode and Fingerprint > Fingerprints, and turn ON the "Passcode Unlock” option.